A chance to capitalise on Pompey uncertainty
1 comment August 22nd, 2009
The first matchday of the home season is upon us, and I’m bouncing up and down like tigger after Pooh gave him a load of honey that was actually chock-full of amphetamine sulphate.
Whilst we’ve already played twice this season, it never feels like a new campaign is underway until we have strolled out on to home turf. RedAction volunteers spent yesterday leaving scarves on seats, and the Emirates hierarchy have promised that a process of “Arsenalization” of the stadium has begun. Whilst that’s all fantastic, there are only two things that Arsenalize that corner of North London: the team itself, and the fans. Fortunately, both of those will be out in force for Portsmouth’s visit today.
Pompey are in a bad way. The past twelve months has seen them lose Sulley Muntari, Glen Johnson, Jermaine Defoe, Lassana Diarra and Peter Crouch, and they’re now one of the favourites for relegation. I feel for them, but hope we can take advantage of their instability to continue our own good form.
As I said yesterday, I’d expect us to name the same team as in our opening two games, though the likes of Eboue, Diaby and Eduardo could all be handed starts to provide a bit of freshness. Arsene confirmed yesterday that Carlos Vela will join Theo Walcott on the sidelines. Whilst Theo‘s return date is yet to be defined, Arsene believes Vela will miss all of a month.
The back four will remain unchanged, but Arsene must be aware that he won’t be afforded that luxury forever, hence his interest in a defensive player. He won’t, however, be signing Brede Hangeland.
Right, I’ve got to run now. There’ll hopefully be updates on twitter before/during/after the game, so hop on over and have a chinwag.
Come On You Gunners!
